15 Cool Places in the Philippines to Beat the Summer Heat

The equator passes through 13 countries, but the Philippines, while not directly on the equator, is undeniably one of the hottest countries globally. Our tropical climate and island geography make it a popular destination for those seeking sunshine.

However, the intense heat has become increasingly challenging for Filipinos in recent years. Traditional cooling methods like halo-halo are no longer sufficient. We now heavily rely on air conditioning and indoor spaces like shopping malls to escape the heat.

But what if I told you that beaches aren’t the only option for escaping the summer heat? Discover these 15 cool places in the Philippines to beat the summer heat.

Also read: 10 Hottest Summer Destinations in the Philippines for Your Next Barkada Trip

Luzon

1. Batanes

Batanes is probably one of, if not the most expensive destination among all of the places listed below for the reason that you can only get there by riding a plane to Basco or riding boats. And everybody knows how costly it is to travel to Basco. However, because it is the farthest away from the equator, it’s also one of the coolest places in the country. Just make sure that you plan your trip well as getting there is not easy.

Also read: 24 Cool Things to Do in Batanes on Your Very First Visit

2. Batad, Banaue, Ifugao

Batad is a barangay of Banaue Municipality in the province of Ifugao. The most famous tourist attraction there is Batad’s Rice Terraces. Perhaps the coolest area is at the Highest Viewpoint of the terraces. Visitors also include Tappiya Waterfalls as part of their itinerary.

3. Sagada, Mountain Province

I can never fully describe the weather in Sagada. The sun is up and shining bright all day, but the air is cool and not humid, unlike most places in the Philippines. I highly recommend going there during Holy Week. My family and I have an inside joke about the place; if you want to repent for your sins and you wish to serve penance, go to Sagada. You’ll know what I’m talking about as soon as you survive spelunking in Sumaguing Cave and the journey to and from Bomod-ok Falls.

4. Mount Pulag, Benguet

Mountain climbing has been a thing in the Philippines recently and I don’t mean it in a bad way. It is great to see people conquering the highest peaks of our terrain, though there are also some environmental issues that come along with the activity becoming more mainstream. Still, if you are into extreme adventures and also want to go somewhere cool, go to Mount Pulag.

5. Baguio City, Benguet

Ah, yes. Baguio City is probably one of the most popularly known cold cities in the Philippines. It is often called the Summer Capital of the country. Although it is arguably less cool than before, many still flock to the city to experience the weather. It’s cold that even their mall doesn’t have air conditioning.

Visayas

6. Don Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental

Many people like to call the municipality of Don Salvador Benedicto as the Little Sagada or the Summer Capital of Negros Occidental. It is located in the uplands of the province and it has been blessed with cooler breezes. It also boasts its own rice terraces and Malatan-og or “Cigarette” Falls. Getting there and getting around has proved to be quite challenging as tourism has only begun to boom in the last couple of years. But because of this, it now becomes the perfect place for a road adventure.

7. Canlaon City, Negros Oriental

If Don Salvador Benedicto is called Little Sagada, Canlaon City is known as the Little Baguio of Negros Oriental. Like many upland destinations, Canlaon City is blessed with its own rice terraces, waterfalls, natural springs and a majestic volcano, Mount Kanlaon.

8. Dalaguete, Cebu

While many flock to Cebu to enjoy its famous beaches, if you are in need of a place to beat the Cebu heat, visit the foggy hillsides of Dalaguete. Visit Osmeña Peak and you should not miss the cold Obong Springs.

Also read: Top 19 Things to Do in Cebu for First Time Visitors

9. Pondol Falls, Almeria, Biliran

My mom’s roots come from Barangay Iyusan, Almeria in the province of Biliran. Very close from their house is one of the coldest waters that I have ever swam in. The best way to go there if you’re coming in from Naval is through a habal-habal. On the way, you will also see beautiful rice terraces. From Iyusan, you can hike for about 20 minutes to get to the Falls.

10. Bugang River, Pandan, Antique

If you are tired of the summer heat from Boracay, you must visit Bugang River. From Caticlan, it will take about 45 minutes to an hour to reach Pandan. Do not waste any minute and try river rafting in Bugang. It was awarded as the cleanest river in the Philippines, not to mention one of the coldest river waters in the country.

Mindanao

11. Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

Malaybalay is the capital of Bukidnon. It’s one of those cities that are less like Manila and you can feast on so many greens that you can ever see. Although it is not blessed with beaches, it’s perfect for those who are thrill-seekers and who want more adventure as there are many spots where you can hike. As for those who look for more relaxing activities, you can always try their Nasuli Spring.

12. Marawi City, Lanao del Sur

Marawi City is an Islamic city as it is said to have the highest rate of Muslims compared to other parts of the Philippines. What makes Marawi interesting is that they too have their own culture unique from others. Anywhere you look, you can really tell how deeply embedded their culture is to the people. And the best part, its cool climate as compared to lowland cities in Mindanao.

13. Lake Sebu, South Cotabato

Lake Sebu is also known as the Summer Capital of Southern Philippines. What people like to visit in Lake Sebu are the famous seven waterfalls. You can hike to see the falls but you can also take a zipline to get a bird’s eye view while enjoying the cool breeze up in the air.

14. BuDa, Davao City

BuDa is short for Bukidnon-Davao Highway. It is famous for its high altitudes and vacation houses. It’s the perfect hideout place when you’re running away from the hustle and bustle of the populated cities. It’s also great for retreats whether you’re alone, with friends, family and your special someone.

15. Lake Agco, Ilomavis, Kidapawan, North Cotabato

Two to three hours away from Davao City is a hidden paradise in Kidapawan. Lake Agco is dubbed as the Eden of Kidapawan City because of its rich flora and fauna. You can go to Lake Agco Mahomanoy Mountain Resort, which is located right at the foot of Mount Apo. Enjoy the cool air of the mountain resort and take a dip in their mud pools.

Also read: 11 Bizarre Filipino Foods to Try – If You Dare

Wherever you are, I’m sure you can find time to visit one or more of these places this summer. It’s time to let go of your summer bikinis and pack your sweaters!